Canon® EOS-1Ds Mark III Digital Field Guide

Chapter 6. Working with Canon Speedlites

In This Chapter

• Canon Speedlites

• Exposing with Speedlites

• Add-On modifiers for Speedlites

• Using Speedlites in various lighting situations

• Remote triggering with Speedlites

This chapter is the most relevant for those photographers who shoot on location and hand-held. Not that you couldn't use the information that follows for a studio setup or location tripod shoot — the Canon Speedlite system is quite versatile, and includes infrared line-of-sight wireless technology that allows multiple Speedlites to be used simultaneously.

That stated, my focus here is for those advertising, lifestyle, and event photographers whose work involves capturing elusive and compelling moments in the best light possible. This includes both knowing how to find the most attractive available light, of course, and also how to take advantage of an onboard or wireless strobe to best complement the location lighting that exists.

Much of this information would apply to non-Canon flashes as well, but I'll be focusing on Canon's Speedlites.

Canon Speedlites

The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III and Canon Speedlites make for a happy combination, due to better results at high ISOs and improved communication between camera and Speedlites. Although there are five different Speedlites, I'll be looking at the two main units used for general-purpose professional use: the 580EX II and the 430EX II (as well as the 430EX). Both of these units are quite capable, each with different advantages and disadvantages. ...